Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha believes David de Gea needs competition at the club in order to return to his previous form.
De Gea has been comfortable in the No.1 position at United this season. At the beginning of the campaign, the Reds had Martin Dubravka and Tom Heaton on their books as alternatives to the Spaniard.
After two appearances for United in the Carabao Cup, Dubravka was recalled by Newcastle in January. He was replaced temporarily by Crystal Palace loanee Jack Butland but he played on zero occasions before leaving on Tuesday to join Rangers on a four-year deal.
The Manchester Evening News understands Anderlecht's Bart Verbruggen is a target this summer while Porto's Diogo Costa has also been linked. Speaking to MEN Sport, Saha explained De Gea is in desperate need of competition should he remain in Manchester.
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"There's always talk about David de Gea's performances," he explained. "One week, he is absolutely brilliant, saved the team and just won the Golden Glove. One bad performance and everything is questioned.
"What De Gea needs is competition to become the number one goalkeeper, he needs to be put under pressure because that's the direction Manchester United is headed, no one is guaranteed a place in the team. You should start depending on your form and performance, not your status, past experience or how big your name is.
"Every player needs to be challenged for their spot, and I think De Gea needs the competition first. It has been done before when two great goalkeepers challenge for the number one spot, but it can be hard for the player, mentally." Erik ten Hag is adamant the 32-year-old will extend his stay beyond this month but has refused to guarantee him a start next season.
Saha was speaking to the Manchester Evening News for Betway.
A Manchester Evening News special souvenir edition - Fergie's First - charts United's 1992/93 title-winning campaign and you can get your hands on one here
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